The 8th Annual Shasta Yama summer outdoor Taiko and music festival on July 28th in Mount Shasta's Shastice Park.his is a rare opportunity for a rural community like Siskiyou County to be able see and experience the full artful experience of Taiko. While most of us have seen Shasta Taiko perform at many local events “Shasta Yama is an enchanted evening of dance and drumming steeped in tradition with the contemporary and progressive” sensibilities of founders Russell Baba and Jeanie Mercer. This concert features some of the best Taiko performers in the world.

Taiko literally means 'fat drum' in Japanese and is rooted in the culture. While the “big drums” have been part of religious festivals and ceremonies in Japan the music has worldwide appeal, especially with the inclusion of western influences, like jazz. The Shasta Yama concert will entertain you with the traditional drumming and performances of sound and strength of the musicians and dancers. The dancing I’ve seen at past concerts have been delicate and sweet. I always enjoy the entire concert my favorite part watching and hearing Russell playing his saxophone in the sultry unhurried jazzy way he plays, while Jeannie Mercer interprets his riffs on the upright drums and Masato Baba brings it all together on the big drum. This family knows how to make music together and it is a joy to watch them.

This year’s Shasta Yama will include drumming, dance and performances from Shasta Taiko and San Jose Taiko whose performances have been described as mesmerizing, powerful, fantastic, thrilling, exceptional, and spectacular. Also featured this year will be Masato (Maz) Baba of the Taiko Project, Toru Watanabeof Portland Taiko for the full line up visit Shasta Yama.

Nothing can ever replace a live concert experience, but you can see some past performances on Siskiyou TV, You can also view many other Siskiyou County events and performances.

The gate opens at 5 pm. Food and refreshments will be available. This is an amazing opportunity for everyone to see world class musicians and dancers and to support our local musicians. So take the kids, bring your lawn chair and enjoy the concert. Consider this a wonderful opportunity for an affordable staycation!